Shell GameChanger Challenge: Chemicals Decarbonisation

ABSTRACT

Shell GameChanger is seeking start-ups or small- or medium-sized enterprises with early- to mid-stage technologies that could significantly reduce the carbon intensity of the Shell Chemicals portfolio. Companies with early-stage technologies (TRL 2-5) will be considered for the Shell GameChanger program, for which the funding opportunity will be in the range of $200,000 USD (depending on scope) to progress a “proof of concept” in a phased approach over a period of 12 - 18 months. Those with mid-stage technologies (TRL 6-7) will be considered for direct collaboration with Shell’s Chemicals technology group.

This is an electronic Request-for-Partners (eRFP) Challenge; the Solver will only need to submit a written proposal to be evaluated by the Seeker with the goal of establishing a formal collaboration.

OVERVIEW

Chemical products are essential for maintaining and improving modern society’s quality of life. The industrial production of these chemicals is dominated by energy-intensive processes via steam cracking of hydrocarbon feedstocks (naphtha, light paraffins, and natural gas liquids), and their carbon footprint is significant. The challenge for the industry is to decrease the carbon footprint whilst satisfying an increasing demand at an affordable price. Shell is a major player in the chemicals industry and is seeking partners with innovative technologies that significantly reduce the carbon intensity related to Shell’s Chemicals portfolio.

This is an electronic Request-for-Partners (eRFP) Challenge. The Solver will write a preliminary proposal (about 2-4 pages, including supporting non-confidential information and contact details) to be evaluated by the Seeker with a goal of establishing a collaborative partnership. Upon completion of the evaluation, the Seeker may contact selected Solvers directly to further evaluate the potential fit and basis for collaboration.

NOTE: Proposals from Solvers who have the ability to work directly as the collaboration partner will be considered first. The Seeker will also consider proposals from other Solvers who refer a suitable candidate as a partner for a finder’s fee of $2,000 USD if the Seeker agrees that the candidate is worth contacting. See full description for details.

Submissions to this Challenge must be received by 11:59 PM (US Eastern Time) on 31-Aug-2021.
Late submissions will not be considered.

ELIGIBILITY

Employees of Shell are not eligible to receive a finder’s fee for this Challenge.

ABOUT THE SEEKER

Founded in 1996, the Shell GameChanger program works with businesses on unproven early-stage ideas with the potential to impact the future of energy. It provides start-ups with support, expertise and seed funding, but gives them independence to make their own decisions.

What is InnoCentive?

InnoCentive is the global innovation marketplace where creative minds solve some of the world's most important problems for cash awards up to $1 million. Commercial, governmental and humanitarian organizations engage with InnoCentive to solve problems that can impact humankind in areas ranging from the environment to medical advancements.

What is an eRFP Challenge?

An InnoCentive eRFP Challenge allows Seekers to submit Requests for Proposals for a partner or supplier to provide materials or expertise to solve a business challenge by leveraging the InnoCentive Solver network. This global community includes organizations and individuals, such as contract research organizations, scientists, university researchers, and technology companies.

After a Solver submits an eRFP response, the Seeker evaluates the responses to determine which Solver(s) to contact for further business discussions. With eRFPs, the Solver must not provide any confidential information in the eRFP response. If your eRFP response is selected, you negotiate the terms of the contract (including scope of work, tasks and duration) directly with the Seeker.

This Challenge type does not require Intellectual Property (IP) transfer. However, sometimes Seekers request that certain IP arrangements be made should a partnership be formed.